Food Additives Guide
In short
Food additives are substances that give color, taste, texture or preserve a product and are assessed by the EU and given an E-number. Most are harmless (citric acid E330, xanthan gum E415); some are debated (aspartame E951, MSG E621); very few are restricted or banned in the EU (titanium dioxide E171). It is right to assess each additive individually, not wholesale.
What does an E-number mean?
The 'E' shows the additive has been assessed in the EU food-safety system and given a number; it is not danger but a sign of being regulated. Codes are grouped by function: E100s color, E200s preservatives, E300s antioxidants, E400s thickeners, E600s flavor enhancers, E900s sweeteners. Natural substances can also have E-numbers (turmeric E100, vitamin C E300).
Which are controversial?
Some azo dyes (E102, E110, E122, E124, E129) carry a child attention/activity warning label. Titanium dioxide (E171) was banned in food in the EU. Aspartame (E951) was classified 'possibly carcinogenic' by IARC but is considered safe within the permitted dose. MSG (E621) is considered safe but is usually found in heavily-processed products. Each is a separate story.
How to approach them
Labeling an additive wholesale 'good' or 'bad' is wrong. Being permitted does not mean unlimited safety; most have a daily intake limit. The most practical rule: products with many colors, preservatives and flavor enhancers are usually heavily processed, and reducing these is enough. By scanning a product you can see what each E-number is and why it is flagged, with its source.
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Start scanningFrequently asked
Does an E-number mean dangerous?
No. 'E' shows the additive has been assessed and approved by the EU. Most are harmless; a few are controversial or restricted.
Which additive should I watch most?
EU-banned titanium dioxide (E171) and child-warning azo dyes stand out; aspartame and MSG are debated but considered safe at permitted doses.
Is there such a thing as a natural additive?
Yes. Many additives like citric acid (E330), turmeric (E100), vitamin C (E300) are naturally sourced; having an E-number does not mean synthetic.
This page is for general information; it is not a substitute for medical/dietary advice. Personal suitability varies by skin type, allergies and health status.